The Silver Freak Project (Page 25/59)
Blacktree APR 16, 05:47 PM
I wasn't aware of that. I'll have to check on it.

EDIT: what a great way to start Page 7... with a trashed engine block and an un-drivable Fiero. GRRR...

[This message has been edited by Blacktree (edited 04-16-2009).]

Jake_Dragon APR 16, 09:57 PM
Sorry about the engine, you will like the 3.4 and it gives you an upgrade path later that you dont have with the 2.8

[This message has been edited by Jake_Dragon (edited 04-17-2009).]

Blacktree APR 17, 04:03 PM
Today, I ordered a 3.4 crate engine from GM Parts Direct.

Now, I have to decide whether or not I should install my ported heads and performance camshaft in it. The cautious part of me says "if it ain't broke, don't try to fix it". But the speed freak in me says "tweak that sucker!"

Hmm...
Gwain APR 23, 08:19 AM
OK Blacktree, now I see where you're at. I think the real problem started back with your post of 3-18. That "beverage" in the picture was either the wrong type or not enough quantity.

I'm going to be following and talking to you about the crate engine approach. I'm looking for a 3.4L but am leaning towards the bone yard find with a total rebuild.

Marc

------------------
Marc in sunny Titusville, FL


  • 84 SE son's car, loaded
  • 85 Coup w/V6 transplant
  • 85 GT newly on the road
  • 86 SE/GT "The Chameleon" - big plans!
Blacktree APR 24, 06:22 PM
Haha

Actually, I believe the real problem started when I built the 2.8 engine. I had a lot of material shaved off the block deck, to increase the compression and achieve the optimum quench height. So the metal that the cylinder head bolts screw into was weakened. And coincidentally, the crack in the block goes across one of the head bolt holes.

I've decided to install my SSI Stage 3 cam into the 3.4. Plugging the cam stats into Desktop Dyno results in better high-end performance, with very little loss in low-end performance, compared to the Crane H260 cam that comes in the 3.4 crate engine.

I still haven't decided whether or not to install my ported 2.8 heads. They have 0.010" shaved off the bottom. So if I installed them on the 3.4, the compression ratio would be increased to about 9.25:1. I'd really like to stick with 87 octane gasoline, if possible.

Anyway, GM Parts Direct sent me an email saying they shipped my engine today. So hopefully, I'll have an engine to play with in a week or so. I also have Rodney Dickman's starter relocation kit.
Blacktree APR 26, 02:25 PM
While waiting for the engine, I started brainstorming on "Custom Hood 2.0". In my aerodynamics experiments, I noticed that my hood vent was causing a lot of turbulence. Hopefully, a new hood vent design will reduce the turbulence. Below are a few photos of the new hood scoop design.







As you can see, I plan on using two smaller vents, instead of one large vent. I'm hoping the two smaller vents will speed up the air coming through the vents, which in turn should reduce turbulence.

[This message has been edited by Blacktree (edited 09-02-2017).]

Blacktree MAY 12, 04:30 PM
The 3.4 V6 is installed and running. Here are a few photos of the engine swap.











And finally, a short video clip of the engine idling.

[This message has been edited by Blacktree (edited 09-02-2017).]

Neolithic Shadow JUN 01, 04:29 AM
What, the madness is over? that can't be!? this is one of my favorite builds so bump!
exoticse JUN 25, 02:15 PM

quote
Originally posted by Neolithic Shadow:

What, the madness is over? that can't be!? this is one of my favorite builds so bump!



Nope the madness is far from over.

Mike still has lots of plans for his car, but only he gets to spill the beans when he is ready.

Blacktree JUN 25, 08:27 PM
Plus, I've been busy working on other people's cars. Next time there's a lull, I have a little project in store for the Freak.